Ohio Republicans target taxpayer-funded ad campaigns

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — An amendment tucked into the Ohio House version of the state operating budget aims to curb taxpayer-funded advertising campaigns like the one starring Republican Treasurer Josh Mandel.

Mandel, who is running for U.S. Senate, spent about $2 million on ads that featured him and Ohio State football coach Urban Meyer. His office used a loophole to avoid spending approval by the Controlling Board by paying for the commercials in increments under $50,000.

The amendment released by House Republicans requires Controlling Board approval for any advertising that, in total, exceeds $50,000.

Mandel’s spokesman did not say if the state treasurer was the target of the latest amendment. He did say Mandel’s office reviewed the amendment, and “we have no problem with it.”